Building Commission funds improvements in Peninsula State Park and Collins Marsh
WEST ALLIS… Senator and State Building Commission member André Jacque (R-New Franken) announced the Commission today approved $5.2 million to upgrade shower and restroom facilities at the Tennison Bay Campground in Door County’s Peninsula State, and to replace gates in the dam at Collins Marsh in Manitowoc County.
“We all know how important these properties are to our local tourism economy, and to those of us who call this area home,” said Sen. Jacque, who was appointed to the Commission at the start of 2021. “I appreciate my fellow members recognizing the need to fund these projects to ensure that visitors and locals alike can enjoy these outdoor recreation opportunities for years to come.”
Sen. Jacque said the Building Commission approved the following projects:
Peninsula State Park – Tennison Bay Campground Facilities
Peninsula State Park, located near Fish Creek in Door County, was established in 1910. It is one of the busiest state parks in the system, with more than 205,000 camper days, over a million visitors each year, and annual revenues of approximately $2 million. Among its many attractions, the park has 468 campsites, including 188 family campsites at the Tennison Bay Campground. The project will update the 1967-era restroom and shower facilities, completely rebuilding the structure, including electrical and mechanical systems as well as replacing water supply and sanitary sewer lines.
“These facilities are outdated and beginning to fail, with tile falling off the walls and floors, creating potential hazards to visitors at the campground,” Sen. Jacque said.
Collins Marsh Wildlife Area – Replacing Dam Gates
Sen. Jacque said the 915-acre wildlife refuge area within the 4,200-acre property is home for the fall migration of waterfowl, as well as a variety of other wetland loving birds. It offers year-round recreational opportunities, – including a nature center, screened-in shelter, a 110-foot observation tower – providing opportunities for hunters and non-hunters alike. The project will replace two radial gates on the 1960’s-era dam, allowing for easier and safer gate operation and improved vegetation and wildlife habitat management in Collins Marsh.
“The dam gates are nearing the end of their useful lives,” Sen. Jacque said. “It’s imperative that the Building Commission maintain Collins Marsh and all of our outdoor recreation areas so that future generations may continue to enjoy them.”
Senator André Jacque represents Northeast Wisconsin’s 1st Senate District, consisting of Door and Kewaunee Counties and portions of Brown, Calumet, Manitowoc, and Outagamie counties.
